Gould’s Shortwing

This rarely seen bird is skulky and difficult to locate on its wintering grounds, but becomes incredibly confiding on its breeding grounds. It was perhaps my favorite bird in India; its cuteness and delicate beauty are complemented by the stunning scenery of its high Himalayan habitat. The scientific name – stellata – refers to the star-shaped white dots on its belly.

This rarely seen bird is skulky and difficult to locate on its wintering grounds, but becomes incredibly confiding on its breeding grounds. It was perhaps my favorite bird in India; its cuteness and delicate beauty are complemented by the stunning scenery of its high Himalayan habitat. The scientific name - stellata - refers to the star-shaped white dots on its belly.